News article
Solheim Cup venue receives recognition for sustainability efforts
Finca Cortesin, the host venue of the 2023 Solheim Cup, has achieved a third-party verified GEO Certified label for sustainable golf.
The golf venue opened in 2006 and has worked hard to develop a course that complements the local culture, landscape and ecology. The resort has worked to maintain a healthy playing surface after installing Bermudagrass on the greens in 2016. Doing this has helped to reduce on-course water consumption by 30%.
Finca Cortesin also utilises 100% recycled water from the nearby village of Manilva, and was awarded ACOSOL’s seal of quality for recycled water management in May last year.
Elsewhere, Finca Cortesin has worked to create beehives to support vital pollination while also working within the local community, forging a partnership with Malaga University and offering internships through a collaboration with City Hall.
The Ladies European Tour’s initiative ‘Celebrating the Green, Presented by Dow’ aims to celebrate environmental work undertaken by tournaments and venues, highlighting environmental, human, social and economic actions.
“At every step, our resort prioritises the preservation of the environment and the wellbeing of our planet."
“Our GEO Certification stands as a resounding testament to Finca Cortesin’s unwavering commitment to sustainability,” said Finca Cortesin President Vicente Rubio. “At every step, our resort prioritises the preservation of the environment and the wellbeing of our planet. We approach each decision with a profound respect for nature, recognising that our actions today shape the future of our ecosystem. Our dedication to sustainability permeates every aspect of our operations, from naturalisation efforts that foster native habitats to meticulous turfgrass management practices that prioritise water conservation.”
Carole Kerrey, Credibility Manager at GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf, added: “We are thrilled that Finca Cortesin is flying the flag for sustainable golf. Over recent months they have worked hard on the process, providing so much data, representing so many best practices, and with some fantastic strategic projects and highlights.
“The accredited third-party verifier was very impressed by what they have achieved since opening, and their plans for the future. To see a resort that operates at the highest level do the same for sustainability is a real example of what can be achieved at venues like this across the world.”
Image: Steven Shircliff on Unsplash